Today, the first stage of a prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia was carried out, as agreed during recent negotiations in Geneva. According to Ukrainian authorities, 200 Ukrainian servicemen were freed from Russian captivity, marking significant progress in efforts to bring citizens home.
The operation was coordinated by a special штаб following instructions from the President of Ukraine. Among those released are members of various branches of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including the Navy, Ground Forces, Territorial Defense, Unmanned Systems Forces, Air Assault Forces, and Air Force. Also freed were members of the National Guard, the State Border Guard Service, and the State Special Transport Service.
Notably, among those released are defenders of Mariupol, who had spent nearly four years in captivity. Their return is seen as a powerful symbol of resilience and resistance, providing a strong morale boost for Ukrainian society.
The released servicemen had been captured on multiple frontlines, including the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia directions. In addition to soldiers and sergeants, officers were also among those freed, indicating the broader scope of this exchange.
Upon returning home, all released servicemen will undergo comprehensive medical examinations and receive physical and psychological rehabilitation. The state will also provide all mandated financial and social support.
Today’s exchange is a result of trilateral negotiations in Geneva, involving international partners. Ukrainian authorities expressed gratitude to the United States and President Donald Trump for their role in facilitating the process.
They also thanked all institutions and organizations involved in coordinating the effort and enabling the return of Ukrainian citizens.
The Coordination Headquarters stated that efforts are ongoing, with the next phase of the exchange expected soon, aiming to bring back all Ukrainian defenders from Russian captivity.
Ukraine emphasized its commitment to returning every citizen and continues intensive diplomatic and operational work toward this goal.
